Euro space group says humans will live on Mars in 15 years

The European Space Agency is setting ambitious goals for space exploration

In a new report this week, they say one of those ambitions is for humans to live on Mars in just 15

years. But the forecast may be overly optimistic, as the current space race leader just saw some of

its rockets explode. The report known as Technology 2040, a vision for the European Space Agency

says by 2040, we envision a resilient European presence across Earth's orbits and the solar system

The report says space exploration will unlock resources, leading to new markets and advancements

in science. The ESA envisions so-called space oases on the Red Planet, offering luxurious

indoor living areas made with heat-reflective material. It would allow for the harvesting of

crops for long-term stays. Plants will live in glass-roofed greenhouses where fruits, vegetables

and grains will grow. The ESA says these oases will exist in as little as 15 years

The report goes on to explain the process of getting to this point, which includes creating

habitats to eat, sleep, and work. The space agency says the oases will be self-sustaining

eliminated the need for a reliance on resupply mission from Earth SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has predicted human colonization of Mars and intends to create a one million person colony on the planet He said in the past that humans

could be on Mars by 2029 and live on the planet in roughly 20 years. NASA and Musk's SpaceX also

plan on sending humans to Mars as soon as next decade. But those plans suffered a major blow

Wednesday. The Starship, the craft currently most capable of sending humans to Mars, burst into

flames during a routine ground test in Texas. No one was injured, but the fire lasted for hours

after the malfunction. The setback follows explosions during three flight tests earlier

this year. Now, Musk says an investigation is underway to find the exact cause of the failure

The ESA, meanwhile, says space dwellers will rely on AI and autonomous craft to explore Mars

The spacecraft will go far beyond where humans can venture in an effort to find mineral resources

as well as uncover the mysteries of the solar system and universe

The agency says it's also fundamental to protect those living on the planet from harsh weather

expressing the need for smart radiation shield materials. The facilities on Mars will feature high-tech sensors to forecast

monitor and protect against harmful hazards like space rocks and more. For more on this story, download the Straight Arrow News app or visit san.com